Ken Rosenthal takes a look at the free agent class as it’s currently constituted and observes that Carl Crawford may wait to sign — possibly until after Cliff Lee signs — in order ensure the maximum number of teams are in on the bidding, including the Yankees.

I don’t think the Yankees will ever be a serious bidder for Crawford, simply because I think they’re happy with their outfield the way it is. It seems to me that the real competition for Crawford will be between Anaheim and Boston. Luckily for Crawford, the biggest competition in the market — Jayson Werth, repped by Scott “The Human Free Agency Rain Delay” Boras — isn’t likely to sign any time soon himself, thereby keeping the options open.

If something weird happens, though, and Werth signs quickly, Crawford may find that he only has one or two real options out there willing to pay what he’s looking for. Not a big risk, I don’t think — Crawford is, to use some hacky agent’s term — a special player. But I do hope his negotiating strategy isn’t premised on getting the Yankees involved.

Craig, I think you fell into this trap. The Universe will swoop in at some point. Gardner, more impressive than expected last season will be 4th outfielder and on the bench with rather significant playing time particularly during late innings. Girardi will do a double-switch periodically to use them both to create or sustain rallies, and because he must think TLR is a brilliant strategist.
Cyber Monday and no Beep-beep the Jete stories- guess I’ll cruise over to amazon, or woot, or MLB.com.(They must have 5% off today and free shipping over $500)